Your auto insurer may ask you to prove you have qualified health coverage.
The proof-of-coverage letter is a short document from your health plan that confirms you have coverage the other party will accept. If your plan offers more than one version, choose the one that fits your situation.
The most common reasons to need the letter.
Auto Insurance Health Coverage Choice
In Michigan, drivers choosing how their auto policy coordinates with health insurance may be asked to show qualifying coverage. See our Michigan auto insurance letter guide.
Changing or Applying for Other Coverage
A new plan may want proof of coverage you had before. Insurers, lenders, schools and other plans each have their own rules about what counts as proof, so ask the requester in advance what document, dates and details they accept before you request anything.
Employer or School Paperwork
Some forms ask for a letter confirming you are currently covered. Check what the form asks for and when it is due, and allow time for the request to be processed, since a letter may not be available the same day. Ask for the deadline in writing.
If you see more than one letter, pick the one that fits.
Read the Description First
Each version describes who it is for and what it says about your coverage. If more than one version is offered, pick the one whose description matches your purpose and read it fully before sending it on. The wrong one can mean another request and more delay.
Match It to the Request
Your auto insurer or the other party will say what it needs. Choose the letter that fits. If you are unsure, ask the requester for a written list of what they accept, and keep a copy of whatever you send for your own records.
Check the Names and Dates
The letter should name you, and dependents where relevant, and show the coverage dates. Check spelling and the start and end dates of coverage. A small error can lead the requester to reject the letter, so ask for a corrected version before you send it.
Proof of coverage is not one document.
A Coverage Letter
Confirms current coverage and who is on the policy. See letter of eligibility.
Form 1095-B
Shows past months of coverage. See Form 1095-B.
An ID Card
Shows you have coverage, but many requesters want a letter instead. Keep it as a backup, not the main document, and ask the requester whether a card alone would be accepted before you rely on it. A letter or other document may still be needed.
What people ask about proof of coverage.
Is this the same as a certificate of creditable coverage?
No. Creditable coverage is a Medicare Part D notice. See certificate of creditable coverage.
Does the letter list my dependents?
That depends on the version. Check the description before you download.
How quickly can I get it?
Plan portals usually let members download letters on demand.
Can my employer give me one?
HR can usually point you to the plan portal or the carrier.
What if I am not enrolled yet?
You will need to be enrolled and effective before the plan can confirm coverage.
Can CFH help?
For the accounts we serve, our team can point employees to the right document.
Related reading: Michigan auto insurance letter · Letter of eligibility · Form 1095-B · Certificate of creditable coverage
Where the Rules Come From.
The laws and rules named on this page link to the statute or regulation they come from. This is general information, not legal or tax advice, and rules change, so check the current text.
ACA Reporting (26 U.S.C. 6056)
The statute behind employer reporting of offers of coverage on Forms 1094-C and 1095-C.
Creditable Prescription Coverage (42 CFR 423.56)
Defines creditable coverage for Medicare Part D disclosure and notice rules.
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